Safe Outpatient Transitions With Subcutaneous Blinatumomab in MPAL

In an interview with Targeted Oncology, Ashkan Emadi, MD, PhD, West Virginia University School of Medicine, outlines the specific infrastructure and protocols required when transitioning a patient with MPAL to the outpatient setting following treatment with an investigational subcutaneous formulation of blinatumomab (Blincyto).

The agent is being studied in an ongoing phase 2 clinical trial (NCT07222579) led by Emadi.

Watch the first part of Dr Emadi’s interview.

In a recent update from the trial, it was noted that the patient, who had tolerated treatment well, had transitioned to full outpatient care after the first week of treatment.¹ As the first patient dosed in the trial, Emadi opted for a more conservative approach, keeping the patient for an extra day following dose escalation for monitoring of possible hypersensitivity reactions or other adverse events. This conservative approach in part stems from the rigid trial protocols and regulatory adherence. However, he notes that in “regular practice, those monitoring [protocols] can be a lot more eased up.”

This shift toward outpatient care and reduced observation time mirrors the broader goal in oncology—to minimize "chair time" and logistical burdens for both patients and community practices.

REFERENCE

1. WVU Cancer Institute first in the world to treat ultra-rare leukemia using novel subcutaneous immunotherapy. News release. West Virginia University Medicine. February 17, 2026. Accessed February 18, 2026. https://tinyurl.com/3fe4mbjf